The adventures of MR5 as she cruises America's Great Loop
Antique Boat Museum and a day in Clayton, NY
June 23-24, 2026
During our stay in Clayton, it was imperative that we visit the Antique Boat Museum. Chris’ father owned a beautiful Lyman wooden boat of which Chris has fond memories.
Here are some images of our visit to the museum and our day spent strolling the adorable town of Clayton.
Several naval vessels for World War I were built in Clayton, NY, particularly by the Clayton Ship & Boat Building Company. The boats on the lakes and rivers vary considerably from those that we are accustomed to seeing on the ocean and sounds.Sails were added to canoes for a speedier ride.Gail and I having a little fun. “Gail, put your hands back on the wheel!”This was considered travelling in luxury for those of means. I must say that I would have preferred the glass enclosure on certain windy days.Many of these boats are on loan from generous donors.Yes, this is a boat. Chris remembers these boats…he must be old.It’s a Chris Craft!!!A view from the top of the Chris Craft. I dig the wings.This is the speed section of the museum.Some of the notable drivers were Harold Mills, the first African American to pilot a turbine-powered unlimited hydroplane, and Marion Barbara “Joe” Carstairs, a British powerboat racer and Standard Oil heiress, she was famously dubbed the “fastest woman on water.”Chris can never pass up an opportunity to try the soft serve…even if it was at a place that specializes in popcorn. It’s always fun running into friends on the street. From left to right: Ed (Lovett), Cara, Greg, and Matt (Someday Came); me and Chris; Gail and Tim (Tug Along).A replica of the U.S. Brig Niagara pulled into the harbor.Goodnight, Clayton!
